tu as une grosse tête
The English phrase "you have a big head" is translated into French as tu as une grosse tête.
This phrase is used to describe someone who has a physically large head. Note that if you want to emphasize that the head is exceptionally large rather than just 'big', you can use une tête énorme.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase tu as une grosse tête is composed of tu (you), as (have), une (a), grosse (big/fat) and tête (head).
Which one should you use?
While tu as une grosse tête describes physical size, the idiomatic expression avoir la grosse tête is used to mean someone is conceited or arrogant.
How does it change in a sentence?
To say this to a stranger, a superior or a group of people, you must use the formal/plural form vous avez une grosse tête instead of tu as une grosse tête.
Did you know?
- The word tête actually comes from the Latin word testa, which originally meant a 'pot', 'jug' or even a 'brick'.
- While tête is the standard word, the word chef also stems from the Latin word for 'head' and still appears in various French expressions.
- In French, the word grosse literally translates to 'fat', but it is the standard way to describe a 'big' head.
Examples in context
- Tu as une grosse tête pour ton corps.You have a big head for your body.
- Regarde cette photo, tu as une grosse tête.Look at this photo, you have a big head.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are looking at an old childhood photo.
- GabrielRegarde cette vieille photo de toi, Léa.Look at this old photo of you, Léa.
- LéaOh non, je n'aime pas cette photo !Oh no, I don't like this photo!
- GabrielC'est parce que tu as une grosse tête ici.It is because you have a big head here.
- LéaArrête, Gabriel, c'est méchant !Stop, Gabriel, that's mean!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries as, tu, tête, une, CC BY-SA 4.0.
